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Older and Wider: Menopausal musings from the midlife
'The menopause is a weird one, as a woman you know that the likelihood of it happening to you is pretty inevitable, but no-one really tells you what to expect.'
So says Jenny Eclair, who, with her trademark humour, will share her experience of what can be a difficult time for many women, from the emotional side of life - missing the woman you were, the empty nest, mood swings - to the health aspects of the menopause, starring the hot flush and also periods (lack of), weight problems, insomnia and other issues. Upbeat and honest, Jenny shares her new-found hobbies, the joy of pets and how to make the best of the different but still-fabulous you.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2020
145 people are currently reading
678 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Eclair
36 books295 followersJenny Eclair is an English comedian, author and actor. She has appeared on numerous tv shows, most notably Grumpy Old Women, and Loose Women, performed on stage and hosted her own radio shows. She continues to tour her one woman stand up shows throughout the UK and was the first female comic to win The Edinburgh Fringe Perrier Award, in 1995.
She has written three novels, as well as contributed to many comedic anthologies.
She has written three novels, as well as contributed to many comedic anthologies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
July 10, 2020
Jenny Eclair feels like a wise, exuberant and witty best friend who performs the much needed service for women and girls in informatively looking at a topic that often gets little coverage, the menopause, that often leaves us reeling, unprepared and all encompassing in its effects. In doing so, she gives us an insight into her life and her personal experience of the menopause, it can feel like the end of the world, the end of life as we know it. However, she takes a practical commonsense perspective in that it offers the opportunity to move on to a new phase in our lives. A phase where you can have the confidence to be who you are, life will not be the same, but there is no escaping the fact that you have to get on with it, and there is the consolation of various things getting better, and as she says, who wants to go back to all the doubts and insecurities of being in your early twenties? Not me.
The important point to understand is that menopause symptoms vary from woman to woman, but are likely to include hot flushes, loss of libido, mood swings, foggy brain, increasing facial hair, added weight and tummy bulges, hair loss, anxiety, depression and bouts of rage that are likely to terrify your family. Being held hostage by our hormones is no fun, it is no surprise that when they begin to go haywire, that we begin to malfunction. Eclair goes in some detail on how we might come to terms with the issues that arise from the menopause, like whether to HRT or not, and life advice that may prove to be invaluable to many a woman, such as healthy diets, exercise, and taking up hobbies such as arts and crafts. She includes a list of tips for men on how to support women through the menopause.
Eclair throws an entertaining light on a much ill and misunderstood, yet critical, phase of women's lives, the menopause, and she does it with style and panache. It will resonate with so many of us who have experienced it, whilst providing a valuable guide for those it will hit in the future, allaying many fears and anxieties. This is not a substitute for medical information, but it is the next best thing and kudos to Jenny for writing this necessary and easy to read book. Many thanks to Quercus for an ARC.
The important point to understand is that menopause symptoms vary from woman to woman, but are likely to include hot flushes, loss of libido, mood swings, foggy brain, increasing facial hair, added weight and tummy bulges, hair loss, anxiety, depression and bouts of rage that are likely to terrify your family. Being held hostage by our hormones is no fun, it is no surprise that when they begin to go haywire, that we begin to malfunction. Eclair goes in some detail on how we might come to terms with the issues that arise from the menopause, like whether to HRT or not, and life advice that may prove to be invaluable to many a woman, such as healthy diets, exercise, and taking up hobbies such as arts and crafts. She includes a list of tips for men on how to support women through the menopause.
Eclair throws an entertaining light on a much ill and misunderstood, yet critical, phase of women's lives, the menopause, and she does it with style and panache. It will resonate with so many of us who have experienced it, whilst providing a valuable guide for those it will hit in the future, allaying many fears and anxieties. This is not a substitute for medical information, but it is the next best thing and kudos to Jenny for writing this necessary and easy to read book. Many thanks to Quercus for an ARC.
July 1, 2020
Ok, brace yourself because this is about the Big M, the taboo of some generations male and female, otherwise known as the Menopause. If you are a bloke and stopped reading at THAT WORD, stop being a wimp because, because trust me, it ain’t for cissies. This is Jenny Eclair’s guide to the menopause which interested me because a) I’m a woman of certain age or is that uncertain and b) because I like her acerbic wit which I find funny. So here’s what I think!
This is a genuinely good guide. It makes you laugh very loudly at certain points which I will refrain from mentioning as it’s a spoiler or it may put you off your breakfast, lunch or dinner. I really like her what’s your type of menopause and if you are one of those deeply annoying women who sailed through it without gaining surplus poundage and with only a mild inner built boiler, then I’ll probably hate you! Kidding. Or not. I tried to engage my mother in the m conversation and she harrumphed and told me to stop making a fuss, then looked in horror and sympathy as my face turned the colour of a Victoria plum and a torrent swept all before it and soaked my new cotton (obviously as no m woman should wear anything else) shirt from Boden. So, I’m a Dante’s Inferno rather than a mild summer breeze. Apart from some really SAGE advice ( I use that word advisedly) there are some top tips, lots of wisdom such as don’t look back it’s pointless, this is a punctuation mark and life goes on and it can be bigger and better. I really love the ‘craft hormone’ and know many women who have become infused and enthused with this one. It’s passed me by but I do find myself wandering into Lakeland and admiring the household gadgets. She is so funny on aging men, think Toby jugs , garden gnomes, not forgetting the ubiquitous comb over and hair sprouting where it never ought to. So guys if you think you’re immune to the aging process just check your waistline.
Overall, a brilliant read - it’s funny, wise, puts it all into perspective, lots of helpful ideas, embracing the new you, being braver and bolder and not becoming invisibly beige and yes, I too admire the dogs when out on a walk rather than the babies except for me it’s labradors I want to steal not wire haired daschunds.
With thanks to NetGalley, Quercus and Jenny Eclair.
This is a genuinely good guide. It makes you laugh very loudly at certain points which I will refrain from mentioning as it’s a spoiler or it may put you off your breakfast, lunch or dinner. I really like her what’s your type of menopause and if you are one of those deeply annoying women who sailed through it without gaining surplus poundage and with only a mild inner built boiler, then I’ll probably hate you! Kidding. Or not. I tried to engage my mother in the m conversation and she harrumphed and told me to stop making a fuss, then looked in horror and sympathy as my face turned the colour of a Victoria plum and a torrent swept all before it and soaked my new cotton (obviously as no m woman should wear anything else) shirt from Boden. So, I’m a Dante’s Inferno rather than a mild summer breeze. Apart from some really SAGE advice ( I use that word advisedly) there are some top tips, lots of wisdom such as don’t look back it’s pointless, this is a punctuation mark and life goes on and it can be bigger and better. I really love the ‘craft hormone’ and know many women who have become infused and enthused with this one. It’s passed me by but I do find myself wandering into Lakeland and admiring the household gadgets. She is so funny on aging men, think Toby jugs , garden gnomes, not forgetting the ubiquitous comb over and hair sprouting where it never ought to. So guys if you think you’re immune to the aging process just check your waistline.
Overall, a brilliant read - it’s funny, wise, puts it all into perspective, lots of helpful ideas, embracing the new you, being braver and bolder and not becoming invisibly beige and yes, I too admire the dogs when out on a walk rather than the babies except for me it’s labradors I want to steal not wire haired daschunds.
With thanks to NetGalley, Quercus and Jenny Eclair.
Want to read
July 2, 2020Love you Jenny!
September 30, 2020
5☆ A Fantastic and Relatable Read!
So I went into reading this book open minded as I have just started what I believe to be peri- menopause, I am definitely getting the hot flushes, night sweats and mood swings so I think that pretty much ticks those boxes and this all started at 38! (Only just 39 now)
Ok so YES I'm younger than the average woman who starts menopause but that's for another time!
What I will say is I haven't Laughed so much reading a non Fiction book and nodded my head in agreement nearly the whole way through!
There is so much taboo about womanly subjects but lets face it menopause is going to happen at some point, and Jenny Eclair makes sense of it. Us women should be sticking together, sharing our stories as believe me when your body is flushing that heat is like nothing I've ever experienced before and it's pretty dam scary.
Jenny gives a run down from A-Z of Menopausal subjects.
She talks frankly and openly about all kinds of things from feelings, emotions, the effects on your body and the effects on those around you, mood swings, sex, vaginal dryness, medication, crafting, her battle with eating disorder, amongst other things.
Not only does she talk about emotional issues, she also keeps her witty humour which I loved!
I applaud her for not being afraid to tell her story in order to help others feel like they are not alone.
If you read one Non Fiction book this year then let it be Older and Wider.
This book isn't just for the older woman it's for all women and men who want to understand more!
Thank you to Netgalley and Quercus Books Publishers for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
So I went into reading this book open minded as I have just started what I believe to be peri- menopause, I am definitely getting the hot flushes, night sweats and mood swings so I think that pretty much ticks those boxes and this all started at 38! (Only just 39 now)
Ok so YES I'm younger than the average woman who starts menopause but that's for another time!
What I will say is I haven't Laughed so much reading a non Fiction book and nodded my head in agreement nearly the whole way through!
There is so much taboo about womanly subjects but lets face it menopause is going to happen at some point, and Jenny Eclair makes sense of it. Us women should be sticking together, sharing our stories as believe me when your body is flushing that heat is like nothing I've ever experienced before and it's pretty dam scary.
Jenny gives a run down from A-Z of Menopausal subjects.
She talks frankly and openly about all kinds of things from feelings, emotions, the effects on your body and the effects on those around you, mood swings, sex, vaginal dryness, medication, crafting, her battle with eating disorder, amongst other things.
Not only does she talk about emotional issues, she also keeps her witty humour which I loved!
I applaud her for not being afraid to tell her story in order to help others feel like they are not alone.
If you read one Non Fiction book this year then let it be Older and Wider.
This book isn't just for the older woman it's for all women and men who want to understand more!
Thank you to Netgalley and Quercus Books Publishers for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
April 6, 2021
I love everything about Jenny Eclair, she's fab! This is lighthearted, irreverent, funny, informative and most importantly, an honest look at the somewhat taboo subject of the menopause. I don't think I've ever related to a book this much before! I wanted to highlight, underline and make margin notes, but unfortunately that wouldn't have gone down very well with my local library, so I guess I'm just going to have to buy my own copy. I'd say if you're "a lady of a certain age" who's up for a laugh and not easily offended by a few rude words, then this is pretty much required reading. Jenny has yet to disappoint me, 5 stars.
June 28, 2020
Older and Wider is a comprehensive and well researched but refreshingly funny look at the menopause by British comedian Jenny Eclair. I saw it on NetGalley and was intrigued because Jenny actually worked for my parents when I was a teenager - before she became famous - so it was a shock to realise that she’s only ten years older than me and writing about “the change” just as I start to approach mine.
Years ago I went to see her in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and was a bit shocked by how rude and sweary she was - so I was apprehensive that the book might be the same, so was pleasantly surprised - don’t worry, there are still some well-placed swear words and fellatio jokes, but overall it’s a well written, honest and highly relatable review of a subject that most people still don’t want to talk about, organised in alphabetical chapters from A “Are you sure you’re menopausal?” to Z for Zzzzz... (about sleep, obvs.) This works better than you’d expect as she cleverly finds something interesting to say for every letter, no mean feat!
Eclair begins the book by announcing that she’s not a doctor. Well I am, but what a lot of women don’t realise is, that they don’t teach you anything about the menopause at medical school (that might have changed but I’d be surprised) and you don’t need to know anything about it doing hospital jobs, so normally you’d learn what you need to know as you go along in General Practice. Unfortunately the start of my GP training coincided with the first of the major trials linking HRT to adverse health outcomes from scary things like breast cancer and heart disease - so suddenly no one wanted to take it any more. The evidence has see-sawed about it ever since, but the fear of many women has never receded, leaving many to suffer unnecessarily.
Éclair (my iPad keeps insisting on adding an accent to her name, which is cute so I’m leaving it!) very sensibly, repeatedly advocates seeing a doctor for advice about both treatment and worrying symptoms, which obviously I agree with, but here’s an insider tip - whether it’s for advice on symptom management and drug treatment, or for the investigation of unusual changes - if your GP is male or under 50, consult their older female colleague - or go see a specialist. A doctor who has been through it herself will be much more helpful, and her colleague will be relieved rather than offended. In contrast, for potentially life-threatening problems including mental health, choose a GP who works full-time and don’t fret about their gender.
Sorry for the digression - back to the book.
It’s not all serious stuff - some of her lines had me snorting loud enough to disturb the cat: eg “If you are big of knocker, then spending money on a good sports bra is vital, especially if you’re serious about exercising regularly and don’t want to go around looking like you’re in an abusive relationship.”
(A positive or negative, depending on time of day, of my recent increase in temperature is I am now the preferred resting spot for the heaviest of our fur-babies.) Early in the book, Eclair describes her perfect dog - and I thought “what you actually need is a cat” but will grudgingly admit that feline behaviour isn’t ideal for the nocturnally overheated insomniac...
Other parts of the book surprised and delighted me with their insight:
“I think what the menopause does is bring us to a point of crux. There’s no going back. We are entering a truly adult stage of our lives–one where we’re still fit, still compos mentis and still have everything going for us. It’s a time when it feels really important to make some decisions about how we want to live from now on.” and, very much in line with my own philosophy
“Ok, here’s the bottom line girls, we all have our own faiths and beliefs and whatever gets you through the day–as long as it’s not illegal or hurting anyone else–is absolutely cool with me. However unusual your coping mechanism is, if it works for you, don’t let me be the one to put you off.”
However, on one point she is wrong: “Finally, never ever buy shoes online.” The woman is obviously yet to discover Allbirds, the ideal shoe for the older woman, that come in the most delightful array of colours that will match all your colourful cardigan collection (how I related!) and now, even, that I am wearing them for work during this covid crisis - scrubs!
I don’t normally put so many personal observations in my reviews but it’s a sign of how engaged I was with this book, which I will be recommending to friends, family and colleagues for the helpful tips and belly laughs. Big thanks to NetGalley and Quercus for the ARC which allowed me to give an honest review. Older and Wiser is published on July 2nd.
Years ago I went to see her in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and was a bit shocked by how rude and sweary she was - so I was apprehensive that the book might be the same, so was pleasantly surprised - don’t worry, there are still some well-placed swear words and fellatio jokes, but overall it’s a well written, honest and highly relatable review of a subject that most people still don’t want to talk about, organised in alphabetical chapters from A “Are you sure you’re menopausal?” to Z for Zzzzz... (about sleep, obvs.) This works better than you’d expect as she cleverly finds something interesting to say for every letter, no mean feat!
Eclair begins the book by announcing that she’s not a doctor. Well I am, but what a lot of women don’t realise is, that they don’t teach you anything about the menopause at medical school (that might have changed but I’d be surprised) and you don’t need to know anything about it doing hospital jobs, so normally you’d learn what you need to know as you go along in General Practice. Unfortunately the start of my GP training coincided with the first of the major trials linking HRT to adverse health outcomes from scary things like breast cancer and heart disease - so suddenly no one wanted to take it any more. The evidence has see-sawed about it ever since, but the fear of many women has never receded, leaving many to suffer unnecessarily.
Éclair (my iPad keeps insisting on adding an accent to her name, which is cute so I’m leaving it!) very sensibly, repeatedly advocates seeing a doctor for advice about both treatment and worrying symptoms, which obviously I agree with, but here’s an insider tip - whether it’s for advice on symptom management and drug treatment, or for the investigation of unusual changes - if your GP is male or under 50, consult their older female colleague - or go see a specialist. A doctor who has been through it herself will be much more helpful, and her colleague will be relieved rather than offended. In contrast, for potentially life-threatening problems including mental health, choose a GP who works full-time and don’t fret about their gender.
Sorry for the digression - back to the book.
It’s not all serious stuff - some of her lines had me snorting loud enough to disturb the cat: eg “If you are big of knocker, then spending money on a good sports bra is vital, especially if you’re serious about exercising regularly and don’t want to go around looking like you’re in an abusive relationship.”
(A positive or negative, depending on time of day, of my recent increase in temperature is I am now the preferred resting spot for the heaviest of our fur-babies.) Early in the book, Eclair describes her perfect dog - and I thought “what you actually need is a cat” but will grudgingly admit that feline behaviour isn’t ideal for the nocturnally overheated insomniac...
Other parts of the book surprised and delighted me with their insight:
“I think what the menopause does is bring us to a point of crux. There’s no going back. We are entering a truly adult stage of our lives–one where we’re still fit, still compos mentis and still have everything going for us. It’s a time when it feels really important to make some decisions about how we want to live from now on.” and, very much in line with my own philosophy
“Ok, here’s the bottom line girls, we all have our own faiths and beliefs and whatever gets you through the day–as long as it’s not illegal or hurting anyone else–is absolutely cool with me. However unusual your coping mechanism is, if it works for you, don’t let me be the one to put you off.”
However, on one point she is wrong: “Finally, never ever buy shoes online.” The woman is obviously yet to discover Allbirds, the ideal shoe for the older woman, that come in the most delightful array of colours that will match all your colourful cardigan collection (how I related!) and now, even, that I am wearing them for work during this covid crisis - scrubs!
I don’t normally put so many personal observations in my reviews but it’s a sign of how engaged I was with this book, which I will be recommending to friends, family and colleagues for the helpful tips and belly laughs. Big thanks to NetGalley and Quercus for the ARC which allowed me to give an honest review. Older and Wiser is published on July 2nd.
July 22, 2020
As I progressed through Jenny Eclair’s hilarious and illuminating memoir of her own menopause experience, I was convinced we must be sisters in another life. By the time I got to the end, though, I realised that actually we women are all sisters with shared experiences at all stages of life. Thank goodness we are living in the 21st century with all the medical and technological advances on our grandmothers’ and even our mothers’ days.
Things I’ll take away from this are the muffin tops, the excess wind, the dandruff legs, the need for a cardi at all times, Lakelanditis, but most of all the acceptance of ourselves as we are now. I have already spent a happy hour browsing gardening porn - roses online for my new garden reading nook - and am about to order some M&S black pull-up trousers, thanks Jenny. Brilliant book, can’t recommend it highly enough.
With thanks to Quercus via NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC.
Things I’ll take away from this are the muffin tops, the excess wind, the dandruff legs, the need for a cardi at all times, Lakelanditis, but most of all the acceptance of ourselves as we are now. I have already spent a happy hour browsing gardening porn - roses online for my new garden reading nook - and am about to order some M&S black pull-up trousers, thanks Jenny. Brilliant book, can’t recommend it highly enough.
With thanks to Quercus via NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC.
December 4, 2020
Thank you Jenny for writing this necessary book! It’s what every woman needs to hear, particularly if she’s hurtling towards the menopause at a sweaty raging pace.
I suggested to my man that he ought to read this book, for his own safety more than anything 😂 - I’m not completely demented by my hormones, honestly, but at least I know I’m not alone in my scaly-skinned, thick ankled, sweat-filled world.
I now know for certain I’ve got the right man in my life, because he agreed he should read it. I didn’t give him ‘the stare’ or anything!
I’d recommend Jenny’s HILARIOUS take on ‘the change’ (I hate that term!) to every adult female, regardless of age, and every adult male, it could save yer life fellas!
Four solid stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I suggested to my man that he ought to read this book, for his own safety more than anything 😂 - I’m not completely demented by my hormones, honestly, but at least I know I’m not alone in my scaly-skinned, thick ankled, sweat-filled world.
I now know for certain I’ve got the right man in my life, because he agreed he should read it. I didn’t give him ‘the stare’ or anything!
I’d recommend Jenny’s HILARIOUS take on ‘the change’ (I hate that term!) to every adult female, regardless of age, and every adult male, it could save yer life fellas!
Four solid stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 30, 2022
This book is for those women of a certain age. And I am one of those women. I love Jenny Eclair’s writing, she writes with such wit but also amazing accuracy. I think comedians are so perceptive to the finer details. Anyway this book is classed as ‘the survivor’s guide to the menopause’ and it’s an A-Z compendium of all the many ailments that are to befall us poor women during this time.
But it’s far from doom and gloom, it’s full of reasons to stay positive. I laughed, winced and nodded my way through it. Thank god for HRT!
But it’s far from doom and gloom, it’s full of reasons to stay positive. I laughed, winced and nodded my way through it. Thank god for HRT!
May 26, 2025
I don’t know what to say other than Jenny took a subject that is slowly becoming more talked about and made it funny and relevant by sharing her experiences and just having fun with it. As someone who is approaching 40 (next week, damn!) and has been diagnosed with early perimenopause I found myself nodding along and giggling at parts of this while other bits made me quite reflective. I can’t recommend this highly enough to someone who’s going through any part of the menopause, or to someone who’s partner is, I’ve got a few chapters that I’ll get my darling, supportive husband to read!
June 24, 2020
What a brilliantly funny candid look at the menopause! Funny frank informative and totally relatable! A brilliant read for any women or her partner and children! Whatever you wanted to ask about the menopause is here in full! Honest and down to earth, Hopefully prose like this will help educate the wider public and our men folk to reduce the stigma and taboo of the menopause!
Would highly recommend to all!
Thank you net galley for this early read..
Would highly recommend to all!
Thank you net galley for this early read..
September 9, 2020
I loved this book and think everyone should read it. Here is my full review:https://www.sallyflint.com/blog/jenny...
July 12, 2020
Oh my goodness what an absolute hoot this book was. As someone who is going through the menopause, there were so many things I could absolutely relate to in this book.
Jenny has brought her own unique and individual comedic style to a subject that used to be such a big taboo. I can remember hearing women muttering in hushed tones about “going through the change” and looking slightly embarrassed about it. I am so thankful that we now live in a society where a natural process that women go through is being discussed.
Jenny explores all aspects of the menopause, what worked for her and what other alternatives there are. She also makes some very valid points about growing older and being middle-aged. I love her advice about owning up to your age, as she says “own it” so, therefore, don’t let it own you.
This is such a fabulous book and in some ways should come with a warning that it shouldn’t be read in public as you may get some strange looks. I snorted, sniggered and laughed out very loudly as I was reading it. In fact, scrap that, yes read it in public and when someone asks you what you are reading you can tell them its Jenny Eclairs book all about the menopause!
This is a book that came along at just the exact right time for me. Yes, I am menopausal and there are times when I can really relate to some of the symptoms. For me at the moment anxiety is a big issue as I am not only dealing with this natural body change but also as we are in the midst of a pandemic. I have the help of my happy pills, professionally fluoxetine ( anti-depressants), to help and they have done just that.
What I liked about Jenny’s approach was that not everyone is the same, that people will experience different things and some options work better for some than others, hence me and my fluoxetine. She also mentions a few times that if you are unsure about any symptoms or things don’t feel quite right then you should seek advice.
This is a great book to read and it should be something that anyone coming up to “that age”!!!! should take the time to read, as well as those like myself who are going through (whispers dramatically) “the change”!!!! or those that have been through and survived the “Big M”!!!!
The menopause happens, you deal with it and find the best course of action for you to deal with it. So if you are feeling stressed, furious, or sobbing maniacally in a dark corner then instead of picking up a large bar of chocolate or a bottle of (**insert name of favourite tipple**), or a large stabby knife, pick up Older and Wider by Jenny Eclair and you will soon realise that you are not alone, millions of women have done it and survived it.
A brilliant book that I would absolutely recommend. I am Yvonne, I’m 49 and I am menopausal.
Jenny has brought her own unique and individual comedic style to a subject that used to be such a big taboo. I can remember hearing women muttering in hushed tones about “going through the change” and looking slightly embarrassed about it. I am so thankful that we now live in a society where a natural process that women go through is being discussed.
Jenny explores all aspects of the menopause, what worked for her and what other alternatives there are. She also makes some very valid points about growing older and being middle-aged. I love her advice about owning up to your age, as she says “own it” so, therefore, don’t let it own you.
This is such a fabulous book and in some ways should come with a warning that it shouldn’t be read in public as you may get some strange looks. I snorted, sniggered and laughed out very loudly as I was reading it. In fact, scrap that, yes read it in public and when someone asks you what you are reading you can tell them its Jenny Eclairs book all about the menopause!
This is a book that came along at just the exact right time for me. Yes, I am menopausal and there are times when I can really relate to some of the symptoms. For me at the moment anxiety is a big issue as I am not only dealing with this natural body change but also as we are in the midst of a pandemic. I have the help of my happy pills, professionally fluoxetine ( anti-depressants), to help and they have done just that.
What I liked about Jenny’s approach was that not everyone is the same, that people will experience different things and some options work better for some than others, hence me and my fluoxetine. She also mentions a few times that if you are unsure about any symptoms or things don’t feel quite right then you should seek advice.
This is a great book to read and it should be something that anyone coming up to “that age”!!!! should take the time to read, as well as those like myself who are going through (whispers dramatically) “the change”!!!! or those that have been through and survived the “Big M”!!!!
The menopause happens, you deal with it and find the best course of action for you to deal with it. So if you are feeling stressed, furious, or sobbing maniacally in a dark corner then instead of picking up a large bar of chocolate or a bottle of (**insert name of favourite tipple**), or a large stabby knife, pick up Older and Wider by Jenny Eclair and you will soon realise that you are not alone, millions of women have done it and survived it.
A brilliant book that I would absolutely recommend. I am Yvonne, I’m 49 and I am menopausal.
June 26, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. As a woman of a similar vintage to the author, I can relate to a great deal of it!
This is a very honest and candid look at the menopausal woman, according to Jenny Eclair. Jenny is a woman who doesn't mince words and she makes a lot of sense, it has to be said. She covers pretty much everything you ever wanted to know about the menopause from being invisible to mood swings to new hobbies and lots and lots more!
I found it quite reassuring that some of the stuff I have stressed over, seems to be quite a common thing, including that feeling that you are piggy in the middle - elderly parents on one hand and children who are going through their own "stuff" on the other. I laughed when she talked about some women getting quite eccentric in their dress sense....as I looked at my multiple coloured tights and several pairs of jeggings (best invention EVER!).
All in all, this is a great book. The menopause isn't a fun period of time in a woman's life but there is something pretty liberating about being over 50 and I love that I am far more my own person that I have ever been :)
4.5 stars from me - I felt the author did belabour the point a bit in some parts.
Thank you to NetGalley and Quercus Books.
This is a very honest and candid look at the menopausal woman, according to Jenny Eclair. Jenny is a woman who doesn't mince words and she makes a lot of sense, it has to be said. She covers pretty much everything you ever wanted to know about the menopause from being invisible to mood swings to new hobbies and lots and lots more!
I found it quite reassuring that some of the stuff I have stressed over, seems to be quite a common thing, including that feeling that you are piggy in the middle - elderly parents on one hand and children who are going through their own "stuff" on the other. I laughed when she talked about some women getting quite eccentric in their dress sense....as I looked at my multiple coloured tights and several pairs of jeggings (best invention EVER!).
All in all, this is a great book. The menopause isn't a fun period of time in a woman's life but there is something pretty liberating about being over 50 and I love that I am far more my own person that I have ever been :)
4.5 stars from me - I felt the author did belabour the point a bit in some parts.
Thank you to NetGalley and Quercus Books.
November 11, 2022
This was fantastic and one of those books that came along at the right time for me. I’ve been eyeing this one up for ages after reading some fantastic reviews, and I’m so glad that I’ve finally read it as it really lived up to my expectations. It was just like having a chat with an older sister or close friend. Jenny made me laugh out loud so many times that my glasses were steaming up and I had tears rolling down my face. It’s so down to earth and incredibly helpful that I’ll definitely be referring to it again when I’m need of a cheering up! Definitely recommend this if you’re looking for a non medical book about the menopause.
January 23, 2023
4.5 Stars
Lighthearted and open with some tips on how to deal with what the menopause will throw at you. It felt quire relatable in some aspects but also made me laugh.
I don't think I will ever get the image of her stuffing litter back into the taxi driver's window and imagining his face as he drove away.
Lighthearted and open with some tips on how to deal with what the menopause will throw at you. It felt quire relatable in some aspects but also made me laugh.
I don't think I will ever get the image of her stuffing litter back into the taxi driver's window and imagining his face as he drove away.
August 19, 2020
Entertaining (and educational) look at the A-Z of the menopause. Jenny Eclair shares her own experience in her usual witty way whilst encouraging people going through 'the change' to talk about it. Blast through the taboos! The only thing that grated was the talk of specific dress sizes. Hopefully this book will get people talking!
July 14, 2020
‘... she accidentally catches sight of what looks suspiciously like her mum standing just three feet away. Only her mum lives two hundred miles up the M6. Once she realizes that she is, in fact, staring at her own reflection and that she has turned into the doppelganger of her mother in her furious fifties, the truth of what is happening will hit her. Of course, this is it.’
Finding myself at the start of this journey, I was keen to read what I could to educate myself. Jenny (an English comedian, author and actor) has written a comprehensive A-Z of well researched information (she clearly states she is not a doctor) on menopause. Considering half of the world’s population will experience this, it was refreshing to find a book that was informative, relatable and funny - able to shine some light into an otherwise taboo subject.
‘We only get one go at life, and considering the menopause can drag on for a decade of your allotted time on this planet (plus an extra couple of years for the peri-menopause) it would be a shame to waste that time by being permanently down. So, with that in mind, let’s put a positive spin on the menopause...’
This is a book everyone should read - female/male, young/old - as a book such as this is long overdue. There are some serious discussions, however being written by a comedian, there is much fun and laughter as Jenny brings her hysterical interpretation to some of the facts, fads and fascinations. She is most candid in sharing her own experiences and this is really helpful to those of us who, let’s be honest, have no idea. Her down to earth approach makes it relatable and accessible from an understanding of what can occur and how to try and stay on top of things.
‘One of the most interesting revelations about the menopause is that, for many of us women, it’s a time of discovering who we really are, what we really like and what we really can’t be bothered with.’
The range of issues is truly comprehensive and I just love Jenny’s fun, yet no nonsense approach. She makes a lot of sense. Physical, social and emotional concerns are all here from HRT to mood swings to taking up a new hobby. It was a relief to read and realise that there are many women who feel exactly like you do - we just don’t talk about it. Apart from the humour and information, what I truly appreciated was Jenny’s insight into finding the silver lining on this otherwise grey cloud. The glass needs to be viewed as half full as women of this age can find themselves liberated from the confines of society's images and expectations and instead embrace just happily being themselves.
‘We might as well start pleasing ourselves at this stage in our lives and that’s why it’s really important to know what makes us tick more happily as time goes by.’
I cannot recommend this book highly enough for its funny yet wise offerings. There is just so much here that it will keep you coming back as a guide and reference to the many helpful ideas suggested. Jenny’s honesty helps put things into perspective from practical ideas to confirmation that this is really just the beginning.
‘The menopause is a definite chapter in your life. Not only does it mark the end of the young you, it also heralds in the dawn of a new you and what this new you is going to be is very much your decision to make.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
Finding myself at the start of this journey, I was keen to read what I could to educate myself. Jenny (an English comedian, author and actor) has written a comprehensive A-Z of well researched information (she clearly states she is not a doctor) on menopause. Considering half of the world’s population will experience this, it was refreshing to find a book that was informative, relatable and funny - able to shine some light into an otherwise taboo subject.
‘We only get one go at life, and considering the menopause can drag on for a decade of your allotted time on this planet (plus an extra couple of years for the peri-menopause) it would be a shame to waste that time by being permanently down. So, with that in mind, let’s put a positive spin on the menopause...’
This is a book everyone should read - female/male, young/old - as a book such as this is long overdue. There are some serious discussions, however being written by a comedian, there is much fun and laughter as Jenny brings her hysterical interpretation to some of the facts, fads and fascinations. She is most candid in sharing her own experiences and this is really helpful to those of us who, let’s be honest, have no idea. Her down to earth approach makes it relatable and accessible from an understanding of what can occur and how to try and stay on top of things.
‘One of the most interesting revelations about the menopause is that, for many of us women, it’s a time of discovering who we really are, what we really like and what we really can’t be bothered with.’
The range of issues is truly comprehensive and I just love Jenny’s fun, yet no nonsense approach. She makes a lot of sense. Physical, social and emotional concerns are all here from HRT to mood swings to taking up a new hobby. It was a relief to read and realise that there are many women who feel exactly like you do - we just don’t talk about it. Apart from the humour and information, what I truly appreciated was Jenny’s insight into finding the silver lining on this otherwise grey cloud. The glass needs to be viewed as half full as women of this age can find themselves liberated from the confines of society's images and expectations and instead embrace just happily being themselves.
‘We might as well start pleasing ourselves at this stage in our lives and that’s why it’s really important to know what makes us tick more happily as time goes by.’
I cannot recommend this book highly enough for its funny yet wise offerings. There is just so much here that it will keep you coming back as a guide and reference to the many helpful ideas suggested. Jenny’s honesty helps put things into perspective from practical ideas to confirmation that this is really just the beginning.
‘The menopause is a definite chapter in your life. Not only does it mark the end of the young you, it also heralds in the dawn of a new you and what this new you is going to be is very much your decision to make.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
July 4, 2020
I laughed so much reading this. Not only at the sheer comedy, but it’s true. All of it. There’s so many books on how to sail through menopause and emerge like you’re 30 years younger. I’ve never had the urge to go back in time and be a pretend version of myself.
Jenny hits the nail on the head. For a start, menopause was like a dirty word with my mum, who still thinks gritting my teeth and mentioning it is shocking. And the thought that I say it in front of any man…the scandal. I should be quiet and keep it to myself and suffer in silence.
The first (female) doctor I mentioned things to was fairly newly qualified, patted me on the hand with a “we have to put up with it, dear” I wanted to deck her. I walked out angry, in tears before I got home, a snivelling angry mess.
Second (male) doctor was a gem. He talked me through options and HRT was prescribed. He also pointed me to some helpful sites.
I bought books which I found patronising in their “we are joy and strength ” attitudes and nobody seemed angry, tearful, or vaguely bloody normal. Nobody wanted to discuss it. At all.
This is the single most refreshing, honest, brutal but hopeful look at menopause. Written with typical frank, funny language. It mentions things the airy fairy books forget. Like you may want to try more than one remedy/HRT. Your skin might feel like old sandpaper.
I can only say to Jenny Eclair, a huge fat menopausal thank you. For your honesty and humour. This should be on every woman’s bookshelf. If you aren’t menopausal you’re likely to know a woman who is and she could probably do with understanding.
Thanks to Jenny Eclair, Hannah Robertson and Quercus Books for the ARC.
Jenny hits the nail on the head. For a start, menopause was like a dirty word with my mum, who still thinks gritting my teeth and mentioning it is shocking. And the thought that I say it in front of any man…the scandal. I should be quiet and keep it to myself and suffer in silence.
The first (female) doctor I mentioned things to was fairly newly qualified, patted me on the hand with a “we have to put up with it, dear” I wanted to deck her. I walked out angry, in tears before I got home, a snivelling angry mess.
Second (male) doctor was a gem. He talked me through options and HRT was prescribed. He also pointed me to some helpful sites.
I bought books which I found patronising in their “we are joy and strength ” attitudes and nobody seemed angry, tearful, or vaguely bloody normal. Nobody wanted to discuss it. At all.
This is the single most refreshing, honest, brutal but hopeful look at menopause. Written with typical frank, funny language. It mentions things the airy fairy books forget. Like you may want to try more than one remedy/HRT. Your skin might feel like old sandpaper.
I can only say to Jenny Eclair, a huge fat menopausal thank you. For your honesty and humour. This should be on every woman’s bookshelf. If you aren’t menopausal you’re likely to know a woman who is and she could probably do with understanding.
Thanks to Jenny Eclair, Hannah Robertson and Quercus Books for the ARC.
July 21, 2023
If you’re a data-driven individual, then this is not the book for you. Having said that, hats off to Jenny Eclair, who has created a menopause oasis in the desert of taboo, repression and misinformation that has been swallowing and suffocating a whole generation of Baby Boomers and Gen X women. It’s a compilation of common sense facts - or facts that should be common sense but are not - totally naked and out in the open, generating a big wave of awareness, love and support. The author does not measure her words when talking about the pursuit of youth, sex and dry vaginas - thanks so much, Jenny. In between jokes and cursing, she gives valuable tips and life hacks: her ability of changing the tone of her speech makes no room for misinterpretation, making it clear that she means business and we better pay attention.
The audiobook narrated by the author is highly recommended.
The audiobook narrated by the author is highly recommended.
July 14, 2021
I've got a lot of time for Jenny Eclair and as a 50 Yr old woman this is a very relevant book for me. I think it cast its net a bit too wide and became a bit mumsy and R4 at time- suggesting crocheting as a hobby and making Archers references. I would have liked something either more personal and reflective or something more scientific. But it did make me laugh and it is important that we break the silence about menopause so ultimately, yes, I would recommend.
October 25, 2020
I read the first chapters of new books for work but being a good decade off needing this kinda book, I couldn't stop after one chapter.
I love her humour and frankness. Certain parts of this are of course about the menopause but huge chunks of it are more like a users guide to life.
Very quick, witty read.
I love her humour and frankness. Certain parts of this are of course about the menopause but huge chunks of it are more like a users guide to life.
Very quick, witty read.
January 23, 2023
So funny. I needed this.
Definitely chechking out her other books.
Definitely chechking out her other books.
July 7, 2020
4.5 stars
September 28, 2023
Funny read which I would pick up and put down. Some laugh out loud moments as the author takes you through her thoughts about menopause together with personal storytelling.
September 10, 2023
Jenny eclair seems like a lovely lady, and I’d be very interested in her personal biography. But tbh, I’m in my mid twenties and neither the advice nor her experience surprised or was new to me. It felt basic, under developed, and like this book was screaming to be w biography w a large menopause chapter? I appreciate trying to break the taboo, but at times I felt like it perpetuated it.
This book just didn’t resonate with me very much and the slant was definitely less feminist, insightful, and practical than I was hoping.
This book just didn’t resonate with me very much and the slant was definitely less feminist, insightful, and practical than I was hoping.
August 26, 2020
One woman’s insight into the menopause.
I was having a bad day when I picked up Older and Wider, and I’d just read a pretty intense book so I was hoping for something entertaining and humorous from Jenny Eclair to raise my spirits. My word I got what I’d hoped. And more. Much more. Older and Wider is absolutely brilliant.
Written with pithy humour, complete honesty and a witty style that feels as if Jenny Eclair is chatting with you over a cup of tea (and probably a large plate of cheese), Older and Wider is such an effortless, engrossing and entertaining read.
I thought the structure of Older and Wider worked so well. Although I read the book straight through and in one sitting because I simply couldn’t put it down as I was so absorbed, the A to Z nature affords the opportunity to dip in and out of areas of interest too. The short sections allow those readers suffering from menopausal brain fog fully to absorb and enjoy each part without their frustrating symptoms spoiling it! I can’t comment on the plot as, well there isn’t one and as Jenny Eclair might tell you, most menopausal women have probably lost the plot anyway.
That’s not to say Older and Wider doesn’t deal with weighty issues like divorce, sexual intercourse, family relationships and physical and emotional changes for women experiencing the menopause, because it does. It’s just that Jenny Eclair strips back the secrecy and mysticism surrounding menopause and manages to provide solutions and advice with brilliant insight into human nature and so much humour that I chortled, nodded and laughed until I cried my way through Older and Wider as every word resonated with me. I may not have had all the same physical menopausal experiences as Jenny Eclair, but I could certainly recognise so many of her emotions. My husband seemed to think I had taken leave of my senses as I tried to read passages aloud to him but failed because I was laughing too much.
I loved the concept conveyed that embracing who we are and how our bodies are changing can be a positive experience and that where it isn’t an easy thing, there are services and people to help us. Equally wonderful was the level of autobiographical detail that made me feel I know the author a little better and consolidated my opinion that Jenny Eclair is an absolute star. I began reading Older and Wider as a grumpy old woman and ended it as an entertained, uplifted and happy one.
Utterly hilarious, completely relatable and totally fabulous, Older and Wider is a must read for any woman – or man!
I was having a bad day when I picked up Older and Wider, and I’d just read a pretty intense book so I was hoping for something entertaining and humorous from Jenny Eclair to raise my spirits. My word I got what I’d hoped. And more. Much more. Older and Wider is absolutely brilliant.
Written with pithy humour, complete honesty and a witty style that feels as if Jenny Eclair is chatting with you over a cup of tea (and probably a large plate of cheese), Older and Wider is such an effortless, engrossing and entertaining read.
I thought the structure of Older and Wider worked so well. Although I read the book straight through and in one sitting because I simply couldn’t put it down as I was so absorbed, the A to Z nature affords the opportunity to dip in and out of areas of interest too. The short sections allow those readers suffering from menopausal brain fog fully to absorb and enjoy each part without their frustrating symptoms spoiling it! I can’t comment on the plot as, well there isn’t one and as Jenny Eclair might tell you, most menopausal women have probably lost the plot anyway.
That’s not to say Older and Wider doesn’t deal with weighty issues like divorce, sexual intercourse, family relationships and physical and emotional changes for women experiencing the menopause, because it does. It’s just that Jenny Eclair strips back the secrecy and mysticism surrounding menopause and manages to provide solutions and advice with brilliant insight into human nature and so much humour that I chortled, nodded and laughed until I cried my way through Older and Wider as every word resonated with me. I may not have had all the same physical menopausal experiences as Jenny Eclair, but I could certainly recognise so many of her emotions. My husband seemed to think I had taken leave of my senses as I tried to read passages aloud to him but failed because I was laughing too much.
I loved the concept conveyed that embracing who we are and how our bodies are changing can be a positive experience and that where it isn’t an easy thing, there are services and people to help us. Equally wonderful was the level of autobiographical detail that made me feel I know the author a little better and consolidated my opinion that Jenny Eclair is an absolute star. I began reading Older and Wider as a grumpy old woman and ended it as an entertained, uplifted and happy one.
Utterly hilarious, completely relatable and totally fabulous, Older and Wider is a must read for any woman – or man!
August 26, 2020
This is a really funny and honest account of what it is like to be a menopausal woman (and I should know because I am one!)
Jenny Eclair is a well known English comedian, actress, and writer. Her voice comes over loudly in the book as she tackles the tricky subject of menopause with incredible warmth, humour, and empathy.
The short A-Z type chapters are cheery and informative, delivering helpful tips, facts, and anecdotes in a relatable fashion.
Jenny has the inspired idea that dogs should be available to menopausal women on the NHS. In fact, she says that she hankers for a miniature smooth-haired dachshund. Actually, this is exactly what I got for my fiftieth birthday. Sadly, he refuses to listen to me and is extremely grumpy!….. (luckily he is very cute too!)
I liked that Jenny points out the advantages of reaching this stage of life and that it isn’t always just hot flushes and brain fog. She tells women to be kind to themselves and embrace entering a different chapter of life. The use of humour and incredible straight-talking make this book a ‘must have’ for all women.
I have read many books on the subject and felt that ‘Older and Wider’ is one of the best due to the excellent witty writing and relatable style.
Jenny Eclair is a well known English comedian, actress, and writer. Her voice comes over loudly in the book as she tackles the tricky subject of menopause with incredible warmth, humour, and empathy.
The short A-Z type chapters are cheery and informative, delivering helpful tips, facts, and anecdotes in a relatable fashion.
Jenny has the inspired idea that dogs should be available to menopausal women on the NHS. In fact, she says that she hankers for a miniature smooth-haired dachshund. Actually, this is exactly what I got for my fiftieth birthday. Sadly, he refuses to listen to me and is extremely grumpy!….. (luckily he is very cute too!)
I liked that Jenny points out the advantages of reaching this stage of life and that it isn’t always just hot flushes and brain fog. She tells women to be kind to themselves and embrace entering a different chapter of life. The use of humour and incredible straight-talking make this book a ‘must have’ for all women.
I have read many books on the subject and felt that ‘Older and Wider’ is one of the best due to the excellent witty writing and relatable style.
July 1, 2020
Informative and funny as well as told in a direct style that's also laid-back. I am not near menopause age but can identify better with the women I knew who have been through it.
A welcomingly different sort of book and the title made me laugh straight away- a clever play on words thought up in a way that brilliantly captures something that is related to the subject matter of the book. Way more entertaining than the serious books I had on women's health and better than any school lesson on the subject.
Thanks to Jenny Eclair and publisher for my ARC in exchange for an honestnand voluntary review.
4 stars.
A welcomingly different sort of book and the title made me laugh straight away- a clever play on words thought up in a way that brilliantly captures something that is related to the subject matter of the book. Way more entertaining than the serious books I had on women's health and better than any school lesson on the subject.
Thanks to Jenny Eclair and publisher for my ARC in exchange for an honestnand voluntary review.
4 stars.
July 2, 2020
As someone who is at the beginning of this journey, I found this book totally relatable, comforting and hilarious. We need more books like this where women speak out about things which affect us all but are still taboo to discuss in public. Menopause is one of the last of these, which is ridiculous when at least 50% of the population are going to experience it. Brilliant stuff, buy it immediately.
You can read my full review over on the blog. https://alittlebookproblem.co.uk/2020...
You can read my full review over on the blog. https://alittlebookproblem.co.uk/2020...
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